As you know, oral health is important to your overall health, and dentist visits are an important way of maintaining good oral health. So every Canadian, regardless of income, should have access to this care. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a new federal government program intended to reduce the cost of oral health care for many Canadians.

Learn all about the program, what it covers, and who qualifies.

Many Canadians cannot afford critical dental care

Some Canadian families have private dental insurance—either as a work benefit, or that they purchased on their own. But Canadians without dental care insurance have had to pay the full cost of dental care out of pocket. For many families this meant they could not afford to visit the dentist.

The CDCP solution

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a federal government program that will help cover the cost of dental care for Canadians who do not have dental benefits, and have a household income of less than $90,000 a year. The exact amount of coverage depends on income—the highest amount of coverage (100%) applies to Canadians with a family income of less than $70,000.

Services CDCP will cover

The CDCP will eventually cover the vast majority of standard dental treatments including preventive services like cleaning, sealants, and fluoride; diagnostic services such as X-rays; restorative services including fillings; root canal treatments; complete and partial removable dentures; and oral surgery services such as extractions.

How to take advantage of CDCP

The CDCP will roll out in phases from late 2023 to 2025. If you meet the qualifications for CDCP coverage, you will be able to apply for it. Seniors 70 and older will receive an invitation to apply by mail. Everyone else will be able to apply online between May 2024 and early 2025—depending on your age.